Nystatin

By Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
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Nystatin is a medication often prescribed for the treatment of various fungal infections, such as yeast diaper rash and thrush. It is an antifungal drug that works by binding to an important component of the fungal cell membrane. The medicine comes in many different forms, including creams, ointments, powder, tablets, vaginal tablets, and oral suspension. Dosing instructions will vary, depending on the particular product.

What Is Nystatin?

Nystatin is a prescription antifungal medication that comes in several different forms. It is used to treat a variety of different fungal infections, such as thrush and yeast diaper rash.

(Click Nystatin Uses for more information on what the medication is used for, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes Nystatin?

Nystatin products are made by numerous different manufacturers.

How Does Nystatin Work?

Nystatin works by binding to ergosterol, an important component of the fungal cell membrane. This changes the fungal cell membrane, making it more "leaky" and allowing for the leakage of important cellular contents to occur.

Even when taken by mouth, nystatin is not significantly absorbed into the bloodstream (it stays in the digestive tract and is excreted through the feces). This means that it is not good for fungal infections other than those on the surface of the body (which can be treated with ointments, creams, or powders) or those of the digestive tract (which can be treated with oral forms of nystatin).

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